Opposing bill like supporting child pornographers, Tories say

Public Safety Minister Vic Toews told a Liberal MP he could either stand with the government or "with the child pornographers" prowling online. (FRED CHARTRAND / CP)

OTTAWA — The government says anyone who opposes federal plans to make electronic surveillance easier for police and spies is siding with child pornographers.

It’s the first salvo in a battle that will resume today when the government reintroduces legislation that would expand online monitoring powers.

The issue pits the desire of intelligence and law-enforcement officials to have easier access to information about Internet users against the individual’s right to privacy.

Asked Monday in the House of Commons about the coming bill, Public Safety Minister Vic Toews told a Liberal MP he could either stand with the government or "with the child pornographers" prowling online.